Nairobi, Kenya – Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has demanded the immediate arrest of a second police officer involved in the brutal assault and shooting of a face mask vendor during Tuesday’s protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
The harrowing incident unfolded on Moi Avenue as two anti-riot officers cornered the unarmed vendor, beat him severely, and one of them shot him in the head at close range. The protests were part of a growing outcry seeking justice for the late Albert Ojwang’, who died under questionable circumstances in police custody.
While the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed the arrest of the officer who fired the shot, Odhiambo said that the second officer—who assisted in assaulting the vendor—must also be held accountable.
“It’s not just the shooter. His colleague is an accessory; they are both seen pushing the victim and fleeing the scene together,” she told Spice FM on Wednesday. “They are part and parcel and must be prosecuted together.”
Odhiambo also urged the NPS to disclose the identity of the arrested officer, noting that Kenyans online have already begun unmasking him and his family.
Meanwhile, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has been called upon to issue a statement detailing the steps it is taking regarding the rogue officers.
The incident sparked widespread public outrage, with protestors demanding the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, a figure linked to Ojwang’s death. However, the initially peaceful demonstrations turned chaotic after goons infiltrated the crowds.
According to Health Director-General Patrick Amoth, the shot vendor was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) where he underwent emergency neurosurgery. His survival has been described as miraculous.
Kenyans continue to demand accountability for excessive police violence.
